Estimates do not reflect the final hammer price and do not include buyer's premium, any applicable taxes or artist's resale right. Please see the Conditions of Sale for full details.
One of Zuzek's greatest strengths was her ability to inject whimsy into a traditional pattern. From afar, Lilly's Owls appears as a bold polka-dot pattern. Closer examination reveals a flock of inquisitive owls. All owls in this pattern are oriented the same way, making it an outlier among Zuzek's patterns which typically twist and turn every direction. This made the print especially suited to long vertical silhouettes such as men's jeans, where it became a staple. Pulitzer tended to favor Zuzek's animal prints for men's wear, and florals for women and girls.
As with so many of the Zuzek originals, this piece holds a special surprise on the back. A paisley with a small sketch of a mouse wearing a bowtie appears amongst various production notes. The theme of animals in dapper attire can be seen in much of Zuzek's work, such as in Gallery, lot 35.
Related Articles
Sorry, we are unable to display this content. Please check your connection.
You have agreed to be bound by the Conditions of Sale and if your bid is successful, you are legally obliged to pay for the lot you have won. The purchase price for a successful bid will be the sum of your final bid plus a buyer’s premium, any applicable taxes and any artist resale royalty, exclusive of shipping-related expenses.
Condition report
A Christie's specialist may contact you to discuss this lot or to notify you if the condition changes prior to the sale.
The condition of lots can vary widely and the nature of the lots sold means that they are unlikely to be in a perfect condition. Lots are sold in the condition they are in at the time of sale.
In overall good condition and ready to hang. Please note that these original watercolors became designs used in print-making and may contain holes, notations and/or other interesting marks. Close inspection reveals some minor areas of surface staining. Scattered pieces of tape and tape remains on the extreme edges. With rough cut left, right, and lower edges. With one punch hole at the bottom right edge, 1⁄4 in diameter. With scattered registration pinholes throughout.